EXPECT a slimmed-down Orby Sale catalogue when details of Ireland’s premier flat yearling sale are published next week.

Now back at Kildare Paddocks and fixed for September 28th-29th, the Orby Sale will have just over 440 yearlings listed, down from 474 last year.

Goffs’ CEO Henry Beeby said: “It was our stated intention to tighten it a bit and focus on quality. We are very grateful to Irish breeders for their support. There is a very good stallion profile in this year’s sale.”

At the start of July it was announced that the Orby Sale would be staged in Newmarket this year but that decision was reversed a week ago, following confirmation from the Government that most overseas arrivals, if vaccinated, would not have to self-isolate.

“It was an easy and joyous decision to make,” Beeby said.

“This is an Irish sale and it did not work in Doncaster last year. Tattersalls held out a hand of friendship if needed this year but that was all caveated on restrictions staying in place. We engaged extensively with Horse Racing Ireland and the Government, and we were pleased and relieved to bring the sale home.”

He said the reaction to the news has been “universally positive” from clients.

“We have had a lot of positive messages. We wish we didn’t have to chop and change but you are on shifting sands. Newmarket was just a contingency plan.”

A week before the Orby, the Tattersalls Ireland September Sale takes place but it is staying in Newmarket for a second year. Shane O’Dwyer, CEO of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, said: “I can see no reason why the Tattersalls sale was not moved back to Fairyhouse but I have had no negative feedback on it from our members, so I have to assume people are happy with it.”